Who Is Responsible for Trees Around Power Lines?

As a property owner, maintaining the reliability and safety of power lines is vital. This usually entails undertaking crucial maintenance tasks like tree care around vital infrastructures. If you notice trees in your backyard brushing against or on power lines, you may wonder who is responsible. This is a common concern among homeowners, and Southern Star Tree can help. Our certified arborists have extensive expertise and knowledge of local codes and regulations, providing pertinent information regarding the proximity of trees to power lines. Let’s delve into crucial factors to consider, ensuring the safety of your loved ones and passersby.

Vegetation Management by Electric Companies

Electric companies are vital when it comes to protecting power lines between substations and poles. These lines carry high-voltage electricity, making it vital to keep surrounding areas clear of potential hazards. Here are key aspects of their responsibility to ensure you call the right service provider.

Public Safety and Outage Prevention

Electric companies not only prioritize the well-being of their workers but also public safety. If a tree is growing too close to utility lines, they can recommend trimming or strategic pruning to prevent accidents and electrical disruptions in the future. In the case of a severe impending problem, electrical companies can provide tree removal services in Alpharetta, GA to ensure the safety of everyone within the premises.

Compliance with Safety Codes

Electricity poses significant hazards if handled improperly. With that in mind, ensuring compliance with safety codes is vital when dealing with trees around power lines. A professional electrical service provider can uphold these standards throughout the maintenance process, ensuring compliance with state and local policies.

Tree Location

The location of the tree in question also matters when determining who is responsible. If the tree is on public land, the utility company will handle maintenance. However, trees growing on private property are the owner’s responsibility and negligence could lead to costly fines. It is advisable for homeowners to hire a reliable tree care company for routine maintenance and compliance with set laws.

Managing Power Lines on Private Property

While utility companies handle main electrical lines and interfering trees on public property, homeowners are responsible for maintaining trees that pose risks to their properties. Service lines are smaller power lines that connect individual homes and businesses to the main lines. Let’s delve into the crucial aspects regarding the responsibilities of property owners to help you make informed decisions.

Regular Tree Maintenance

Property owners are responsible for ensuring that trees on their land do not interfere with power lines. By hiring a trusted tree service for regular pruning and trimming, you can prevent branches from growing too close to electrical wires. In addition, hiring certified arborists to handle this task prevents the hazards associated with improper pruning, such as infections, infestations, and premature tree removal.

Choosing the Right Trees

When planting new trees, you should consider the species and their potential growth patterns. Choosing trees that remain small and grow away from power lines reduces future maintenance needs and risks. Also, consulting a tree care company or landscaping professional can help in selecting trees suitable for placement near electrical infrastructure.

Handling Hazardous Trees

Dead or diseased trees near power lines are particularly dangerous, as they can fall unexpectedly. As a property owner, you must address hazardous trees promptly, either by trimming or complete removal. If you are unsure about the condition of a tree, hire a tree service provider for a professional assessment to determine the best course of action.

Maintaining trees near power lines is a critical responsibility for property owners. Regular upkeep, compliance with regulations, and cooperation with utility companies ensure safety and reliability for the surrounding community. Contact us at Southern Star Tree to take proactive measures in preventing accidents, reducing liability, and contributing to a safer environment.